subject: Scars And Scar Remedy [print this page] There are many different ways to cause scarring to the skin. Whether it is a burn, cut, scrape or skin malady, they can all create excess build-up of collagen in the body's effort to heal broken skin. A scar has a different texture and appearance from normal skin. Some people allow them to fade naturally, while others prefer to diminish their appearance whenever possible. There are different types of scar treatment available.
Topical Treatments
Creams and ointments are popular ways to reduce the color and prominence of scars. There are many different types of products available on the market. They tend to work best when used soon after a scar's formation. Silicone scar gel, for example can be used in a spreadable form and adhere to the skin to make the area heal better and be less noticeable. Cosmetics and sunscreen can be used overtop it to maintain a more natural appearance as it works on the affected area.
Surgery
While surgery may be the initial cause of scars, it can also be used to make them less noticeable. This is often referred to as scar revision surgery and is performed by a plastic surgeon. It evens out the surface and can remove protrusions or fill in divots where present scar tissue exists. Incisions can be made along the scar line or across it to change its appearance. Skin grafts are a popular method of altering the end result. This is a method of taking healthy skin from one portion of the person's body or a cadaver donor to create a similar-looking appearance as the rest of the body.
Keloid
Keloid scars are perhaps the most noticeable and unusual looking of all scar types. They are formed by an overproduction of collagen instead of the body's regular means of healing the skin. Frequently red or purple in appearance, they are often painful, itchy or just plain uncomfortable to the individual. Keloids tend to cover areas beyond the original wound and are raised above the normal skin level. They may take up to a year to form. Because of their prominent appearance, people often attempt to have them revised, removed or flattened.
Injections
There are different types of injection treatments that can affect the scar's appearance. Steroids, for example, can be injected directly into the area on a monthly basis until the size of the scarred area is reduced. One side effect of this scar treatment is that it may redden the affected area in the process. Fillers, such as collagen, fat and animal-based products can be injected in the scar's surface to raise the level of a dimple or divot to a more natural-looking appearance.
